By Ryan Hester |Staff Writer| The CSUSB Jazz Ensemble gave a wonderful performance March 6 to a packed house at the Performing Arts Theatre. The concert was presented by the California State music group, as well as band director Dr. Robert Knop and Bradley Hampton. Knop also directs the CSUSB Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Combo and CSUSB Vocal Jazz Ensemble. “There is certainly a lot of talent in this program,” said Knop. Before the concert began, the band members were introduced to the audience. Performers included sopranos Melanie Gonzales and Hazel Martinez, alto singer Denise Tillman, tenors Eric Sarabia and Steve Morales and baritone Cody Weinmann. Band members included Luis … [Read more...] about Jazz ensemble classes up CSUSB
Robert Knop
Bring on the Jazz
By Adriene Moore |Staff writer| Dim the lights, sip your coffee and snap your fingers as the jazz ensemble of CSUSB gears up to host award-winning jazz quartet Poem at its first ever Jazz Fest on May 21, 2011. In addition to Poem, the jazz ensemble for Riverside Community College will be opening the show and then the CSUSB jazz ensemble will follow their performance, ultimately leading to the festival’s headliners. Poem is made up of Bob Mintzer on saxophone, Alan Pasqua on keyboard, Darek Oles onbass and Peter Erskine on drums. Each member of Poem is extremely talented, but it is Erskine that will be presenting a special treat for the students. The legendary jazz drummer … [Read more...] about Bring on the Jazz